BEGINNER'S TIPS TO OWN A FRANCHISE

Last updated : February 7, 2018 Posted by: Himangini Nigam

Becoming a successful entrepreneur is a dream come true for all but, taking the first step is a tough decision to take and a risk as well. The path to success though may be tedious but a well sort strategy can assure a safe start. The safest way to start is, to own a franchise. A franchise is already a time-honored establishment which will give you an edge through its brand value, which acts as a magnet for the customers, contrary to which, starting a venture from scratch needs the time and skill, to match the brand value of a franchise.

But one must never forget that all that glitters is not gold because the market offers a wide range of franchisees that you can choose from. The confusion begins when you question yourself, which one to choose and why? Trust me, finding an answer to it is not easy, but right guidance can make your decision easy. Thus, we bring to you a few beginner’s tips to owning a franchise.

- Consistency and permanency in the demand for the products and services offered by the franchise: You need to assess the consistency and permanency of services or products that franchise provides. Check whether the customer base you aim for, can be attracted through the franchise, you wish to be a part of. Apart from this, also keep a close check on the competition around.

- Analyze the success of the Business Model that the franchise follows: You do not wish to burn a hole in your pocket by investing your hard earned money in a franchise that cannot prove the success of their business plan. Plan a thorough check of the business plan they follow and the success stories they linger upon.

- Assess the cost of investments: Any franchise requires an initial start-up cost which includes the purchase of the franchise, expenses, legal fees, infrastructure, etc. The franchisor should be able to justify the outlays and expenditures, that you put in.

- Understanding the financial, professional and legal aspects: Owning a franchise is a long-term relationship that involves the continuing royalty plus the legal terms that you need to abide by. You should have an extensive inside-out understanding of these terms, to prevent any future problems.

- Expansion prospects in the long run: Growth of a business largely depends on its expansion plans whether be in terms of the market or in terms of the products and services offered. Meticulously, assess every detail, keeping in mind the future impact, and then make the decision of going forward with the franchise.

- Prospective Returns and Support: Last but not the least, we all work for financial returns which in perspective of a franchise, requires the support in terms of marketing, technical issues, and advertising. Many franchises usually keep their hands off once the franchise is sold, but that is the time when their support is needed. Therefore, go for a franchise, that lives up to its claims and supports you through a long. For instance, at Aloha, the franchisors not only assure double returns in time but also provide a constant support and optimum market base for your franchise to flourish, thus making your every penny count. So target not to become just a franchisor, rather be a smart one.

- Are you ready to own a franchise: This is the most important question that is left behind in the race of becoming a successful franchise owner. There are both pros and cons of owning a franchise and the biggest drawback of it is, the inflexible range of products and services as well as the monotony of the routine tasks involved. Just look deeply into every aspect before you take up a venture.